Matt O'Sullivan (WA, Liberal Party) | Hansard source

Over the winter recess, I attended three citizenship ceremonies in the electorates of Tangney and Burt. These events are always brilliant. Being able to witness new Australians take the oath and start their journey as an Australian is a truly wonderful experience. For these individuals and families, it's a momentous occasion and, for most, a major turning point in their life. Each person has their own unique story about what brought them to this great country. For some, it's about economic opportunity or even reconnecting with loved ones. For others, they might be fleeing turmoil and conflict.

To mark the significance, speakers at ceremonies are provided with some clear guidance on the allowable content and tone for speeches. To quote from the Australian Citizenship Ceremonies Code:

Speeches must be relevant and appropriate to the occasion and must avoid issues that may be contentious from a political, racial or sectarian point of view. Speeches that have particular political or denominational overtones, for example, would not be appropriate. It is essential that the dignity and significance of citizenship ceremonies be maintained at all times.

Yet, unfortunately, Labor senators, Labor colleagues, deem it fit for 'yes' campaign stump speeches to be used at these ceremonies. Recently, I witnessed this appalling behaviour. Think of a brand-new citizen: this is a ceremony marking a significant point in their lives, and a Labor senator stands up to read the minister's welcome, but first they must shove 'yes' campaign talking points down your throat. This is what I witnessed, and, frankly, it is against the code. Citizenship ceremonies are no place for political speeches. We are there to celebrate brand-new citizens and welcome them to this wonderful country. Citizenship ceremonies are the last place for divisive 'yes' campaign talking points. I urge those that use them to save them for doorknocking and your public rent-a-crowd rallies.